Gaya/Patna: Technology will play a larger role in ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims at this year’s Pitru Paksha Mela in Gaya, with the district administration planning a barcoded wristband system to help prevent children from becoming separated from their families.
Gaya District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar said on Saturday that the wristbands would be linked to the mobile numbers of children’s guardians. If a child becomes separated in the crowd, the system is intended to send an alert or message to the registered guardian’s phone, allowing the family to respond quickly.
System follows last year’s experience
Shubhankar said several children became separated from their families during last year’s Pitru Paksha Mela, and locating them proved difficult amid the large crowds.
The administration is therefore introducing technology-based measures this year to facilitate a faster response when children go missing or become separated from their guardians.
The district administration is also developing a new interactive website to help pilgrims access important information related to the fair more easily.
Six wheelchairs donated
The preparations also received a boost through a donation of six wheelchairs by the Dr Rajendra Prasad Scholarship and Welfare Trust to the district administration.
The wheelchairs will be used to assist elderly and differently-abled pilgrims visiting the fair.
The district magistrate welcomed the initiative, noting that large numbers of elderly and differently-abled pilgrims travel to Gaya from across India and abroad for the Pitru Paksha Mela.
He said the wheelchairs would help the administration transport such pilgrims to temples and bring them back after their visits.
Focus on cleanliness and visitor facilities
The administration is also placing particular emphasis on sanitation during the mela. The fairgrounds are being divided into designated zones to organise cleaning and sanitation services more effectively.
In cooperation with the Gaya Municipal Corporation, the administration also plans to improve decorations and lighting arrangements across the mela area.
Shubhankar said preparations are being reviewed through regular meetings, with arrangements for the upcoming Pitru Paksha Mela now being finalised.
